Methodology for assessing of the restoration processes in reclaimed areas disturbed by polymetallic ore mining

Abstract

Abstract The present study develops a methodology for assessing the restoration processes in recultivated lands, disturbed by polymetallic ore mining. The methodology classifies the recultivated lands into four classes based on the recovery coefficient and the threat coefficient introduced through it. The coefficients are calculated for three groups of indicators - soils (formation of soil profile, mechanical composition, soil fertility), microflora (qualitative and quantitative composition), lack of threats (total pollution with heavy metals and metalloids, salinization, and acidification) relative to the studied site and a pre-selected reference site with similar characteristics.